(I really can't stay)
Betty, it's cold outside
(I've got to go away)
Betty, it's cold out there

(This evening has been)
Been hoping that you'd drop in
(So very nice)
I'll hold your hand, they're just like ice

(My mother will start to worry)
Beautiful, what's you're hurry
(And father will be pacing the floor)
Listen to that fireplace roar

(So really I'd better scurry)
Beautiful, please don't hurry
(Well, maybe just a half a drink more)
Why don't you put some records on while I pour

(And the neighbors might think)
Betty, it's bad out there
(Say, what's in this drink?)
No cab's to be had out there

(I wish I knew how)
Your eyes are like starlight now
(To break the spell)
I'll take your hat, your hair looks swell

(I ought to say no, no, no, sir)
Mind if I move in closer?
(At least I'm gonna say that I tried)
What's the sense of hurtin' my pride?

(I really can't stay)
Baby, don't hold out
Ah, but it's cold outside

(I simply must go)
Betty, it's cold outside
(The answer is no)
I say, it's cold out there

(The welcome has been)
How lucky that you dropped in
(So nice and warm)
Look out that window, man that's hard

(My sister will be suspicious)
Gosh, your lips look delicious
(My brother will be there at the door)
Waves upon a tropical shore

(My maiden aunt's mind is vicious)
Gosh, your lips are delicious
(Well, maybe just a cigarette more)
Oh, never such a blizzard before

(I've got to go home)
Betty, you'd freeze out there
(Say, lend me your coat)
It's up to your knees out there

(You've really been grand)
I thrill when you touch my hand
(But don't you see)
How can you do this thing to me?

(There's bound to be talk tomorrow)
Think of my lifelong sorrow
(At least there will be plenty implied)
If you caught pneumonia and died

(I really can't stay)
Get over that old lie
Ah, but it's cold outside

Copyright: Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Writer(s): Frank Loesser